National

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern warning of impending nationwide mass action, citing the crippling cost-of-living crisis, worsening insecurity, and systematic attacks on workers’ rights across the country.

Rising from its Central Working Committee (CWC) meeting held over the weekend in Abeokuta, Ogun State, the labour body declared that Nigerian workers can no longer remain passive as the nation’s economy falters and democratic foundations erode.

The NLC stated that the hardship endured by workers and the poor has reached “intolerable levels.”

It noted that immediate and decisive action is imperative to prevent a complete national breakdown, positioning the threatened protests as a necessary response to government inaction on these critical issues.

“Immediate action must be taken to avert a national breakdown,” the Congress asserted following the meeting at the June 12 Cultural Centre.

By Muhammad Abubakar

The National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has paid a courtesy visit to Professor S.A.S. Galadanci in Kano, describing the meeting as both inspirational and encouraging.

Ribadu, who was in the city to offer condolences to the Dantata family, took the opportunity to visit Prof. Galadanci, the second Nigerian ever appointed as Adviser on National Security—then known by that title.

In a post shared on his social media handle, Ribadu referred to Prof. Galadanci as a “pacesetter” in the field of national security and a father figure with longstanding ties to his family.

“I was humbled by his confidence in our modest efforts and his profuse prayers for me and our country,” Ribadu wrote.

The visit, he said, provided valuable lessons and motivation as he continues in his current role.

By Muhammad Abubakar

Abuja – Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, on Wednesday joined a distinguished gathering of diplomats, literary enthusiasts, and dignitaries in Abuja for the Nigerian tour of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s latest book, Dreams Count.

The event, which forms part of the global celebration of Adichie’s new release, attracted ambassadors and High Commissioners from various countries. Obi, who had earlier attended the book’s global launch on March 2 at London’s Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall—an event that drew over 3,000 attendees—described Dreams Count as “deeply moving” and lauded Adichie for her continued impact on literature and cultural advocacy.

During the Abuja event, Obi praised the powerful spoken word performances by Nigerian poets, including Dike Chukwumerije, noting the impressive display of literary talent in the country. He commended Adichie for using her platform to uplift fellow Nigerian writers, giving them visibility and a voice on the global stage.

“Chimamanda remains an exemplary model for every Nigerian, old and young,” Obi said, urging continued investment in Nigeria’s creative industries. “The world is watching, and indeed, our dreams count.”

By Muhammad Abubakar

Yellow Danbokkolo, the notorious bandit kingpin long feared across eastern Sokoto and parts of Zamfara State, has died from injuries sustained during a fierce confrontation with Nigerian security forces last week.

His death was confirmed by Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Print Media, via a post on his verified social media account. According to Abdulaziz, Danbokkolo succumbed to his wounds on Sunday.

Danbokkolo, widely considered even more dangerous than the infamous Bello Turji, was linked to numerous deadly attacks in the region. He was the mastermind of the gruesome December 2021 arson attack in Shinkafi, Zamfara State, where dozens of travellers were burned alive.

Security sources say the bandit leader’s reign of terror was sustained by a chronic addiction to pentazocine, a powerful opioid, which he reportedly abused in heavy doses.

Residents of the affected communities have expressed relief at the news, hoping it marks a turning point in the fight against rural banditry in Nigeria’s northwest.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

In a significant move to overhaul Nigeria’s educational infrastructure, the Federal Government has inaugurated a high-level committee to develop comprehensive Public-Private Partnership (PPP) guidelines aimed at attracting private sector investment into the sector.

The initiative, led by the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa CON, seeks to address persistent infrastructural and capacity deficits, particularly in secondary and tertiary institutions.

Speaking at the committee’s inauguration, Dr. Alausa emphasized the need for innovation and collaboration in education financing. “Government cannot do it alone… We must leverage private funding to modernize and sustain our educational system,” he said, noting that while current funding efforts—such as the 2025 education budget and TETFund interventions—are commendable, they remain inadequate.

The newly inaugurated committee, chaired by the Honourable Minister of State for Education (represented by the Director of Special Duties), includes key directors from the ministry, and representatives from the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Ministry of Housing, and other stakeholders.

Its mandate includes formulating PPP benchmarks, reviewing legal frameworks, clarifying stakeholder roles, establishing performance indicators, designing oversight mechanisms, and recommending penalties for non-compliance. The committee has been given three months to submit its report.

“If we do this right, this document can be a model for other ministries,” Dr. Alausa noted.

Other speakers at the event, including ministry officials and stakeholders, expressed strong support for the initiative and its potential to transform Nigeria’s education landscape.

By Anwar Usman

The President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has today signed the four tax reform bills into law.

The bills, which he said will transform Nigeria’s fiscal and revenue framework, were signed at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday afternoon.

The four bills include the Nigeria Tax Bill, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill, which were recently passed by the National Assembly.

Those present at the signing ceremony were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; Senate Majority Leader, House Majority Leader, chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and his House of Representatives counterpart.

On Wednesday, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, stated that the implementation of the new tax laws would significantly transform tax administration in the country, leading to increased revenue generation, an improved business environment, and a boost in domestic and foreign investments.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Federal Government has rescheduled the recruitment exercise into four key paramilitary agencies under the Ministry of Interior.

In a statement released on Wednesday night, the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) announced a new date for the opening of its recruitment portal.

“The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), wishes to notify the general public that its recruitment portal which was earlier slated to open on Thursday 26th June, 2025, will now open on Monday 14th July, 2025,” the statement said.

The Board also informed applicants that the recruitment portal can now be accessed via recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng, and reminded the public that the entire application process is free.

“Applicants are kindly requested to take note of the above changes as well as be reminded that all applications are free and do not attract any payment,” it added.

The Board apologized for any disruption the change may have caused and urged applicants to disregard any contrary information not coming from official sources.

This announcement comes days after the Board had declared the commencement of recruitment into the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Fire Service, and Nigerian Correctional Service.

Thousands of job seekers across the country are expected to apply for the limited positions in the various agencies.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has honoured Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, with the national title of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in recognition of his contributions to democracy and national development.

Governor Sani, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s democratic struggle, faced multiple detentions during the fight for democratic governance. His long-standing commitment to justice and civil rights has earned him widespread respect.

Notably, he is the only serving governor named in this year’s national honors list, as announced by President Tinubu during a joint session of the National Assembly.

Congratulatory messages have poured in for Governor Uba Sani on the recognition.

By Uzair Adam 

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has donated N100 million to assist families of soldiers who lost their lives and those wounded in the ongoing fight against insurgency in the northeast.

The donation was announced on Saturday during an Eid El-Kabir Sallah luncheon held at Maimalari Barracks in Maiduguri. 

The event was hosted jointly by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar.

Governor Zulum presented the N100 million cheque to Major General Abdussalam Abubakar, Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai. 

He stated that each wounded soldier would receive N500,000, while the remaining funds would be distributed to the families of soldiers who died in action.

The presentation was witnessed by the Chief of Army Staff, the Chief of Air Staff, and Major General Godwin Mutkut, the Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF). 

Also in attendance were a member of the House of Representatives, Engr. Bukar Talba, Secretary to Borno State Government, Alhaji Bukar Tihani, Head of Service, Dr Muhammad Ghuluze, Acting Chief of Staff, Dr Babagana Mustapha Mallumbe, APC Chairman, Hon. Bello Ayuba, and other senior government officials.

Governor Zulum praised the resilience and patriotism of the Nigerian Armed Forces, stressing that their sacrifices will never be forgotten. 

“Your commitment on the frontlines, often under extreme conditions and far from your families, is not lost on us. We remain eternally grateful for your service and will never take your sacrifices for granted,” he said.

The governor assured the military of his unwavering support, adding, “Borno State will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Nigerian Army and all security agencies in the fight against insurgency and in rebuilding our communities for a peaceful and prosperous future.”

By Dr. Muhammad Sulaiman Abdullahi

I was riding my electric bike and the engine was in an absolute silence, courtesy of China’s existence on earth, I passed some guys walking by the road side, and suddenly, I overheard one of them screamed out the word “technologia Alaji”, before I took it in, he screamed again, Tesla!

I was internally filled with joy as I was sure he was talking about my little angel, which I didn’t know it would make such an impact on anyone, though the young guy was a millennial. These set of people are fascinated by almost everything today. They find fun even in every sort of trash. The way they take trashes high is so funny and confusing. But my electric bike, though small, is something to attract their whole, I am sure of that.

After I passed, the word “technologia” keeps coming back to me and I just remembered Sarkin Mota, because the young guy mimicked him while screaming the words out.

Sarkin Mota is a Hausa term which can literally be rendered into English as King of Cars or Master of Cars or Owner of Cars or Seller of Cars or all these combined. In this case the guy who is called Sarkin Mota qualifies for all the above mentioned renditions.

I know of Sarkin Mota recently and I am sure he started trending not long ago. The guy was super talented in his unique, unprecedented and unpresidented humorous way of advertising his wares. His style was so tantalizing, timely and it coincides with the needs of the time. Added to this, the Tinubuconomics has angered most Nigerians and made them to think for simple alternatives. Boom… Sarkin Mota emerged with super cars, mostly from China but not in any way affordable by the “Civil Servants”!

The guy started by teasing civil servants whom are mostly today frustrated, angry, hungry and ridiculed from all angles, ranging from their employers, their managers, their community members and even sometimes from within their family structures. Civil servants are in trouble and Sarkin Mota teased them to sell his stuff without remorse identifying with them.

However, Sarkin Mota is sarcastically and truly right. Only some very few privileged civil servants who work in high places can afford the cheapest of his cars today. Others who can afford to purchase cars from him from among the civil servants may do so only with proceeds of corruption, looting or embezzlement. Therefore, the guy is truly right, it is only that too much of everything can be boring as well as hurting. It is not funny to keep banging and punching at one spot, it may end up becoming so fatal and brutal.

In Nigeria there are two types of civil servants today. The extremely poor civil servants and the super-rich civil servants. The extremely poor civil servants are those who work but cannot afford to buy what they need for their lives. They are of various categories. Those who can’t regularly fuel their cars and opt for two days fueling per week or even month. Some have already abandon their cars and opt for their legs. Those who cannot buy a bag of rice to feed their families. Those who are always on credit from the neighboring shop owners as a result of purchase of certain groceries, which they always collect on credit. Those who cannot pay their children school fees. Those who always hide when they see the landlord coming or ignore phone calls to avoid embarrassment. These are even regarded as tier two up, in as much as they eat, even if what they eat is not what they want. There are tier one, top tier, who cannot afford anything. They hardly eat. They barely have any form of enjoyment in Nigeria beside the air they inhale and the sky that covers them from the above. They just live and follow the time. These two categories form the majority of Nigerian civil servants today.

The extremely poor civil servants in Nigeria takes more than 95% of the civil servants’ population. Civil servants are suffering beyond any reasonable doubts. Sarkin Mota was just someone who is frowned at unnecessarily or was only targeted as a scapegoat. His sarcastic nature of dragging the civil servants in the mud was used by NOA to silence him. NOA is also another government agency, which I am pretty sure, harboring extremely poor civil servants who cannot afford to buy Salla rams for their families.

Though I reason with NOA especially if what they did is part of their mandate, I still find their misdirection of anger and warning as worthless.

Their letter should have been a dual sharp edge sword which should have called Sarkin Mota to order and drawn the attention of the government on how they reduce civil servants to being ridiculed by the business community. People look at the “branch” instead of digging deep in order to see the root of a problem! Sarkin Mota’s costly sarcastic style was as a result of what the government does, deliberately. Let us assume that Sarkin Mota was disrespectful, something that he debunked, and then would the government that forcibly pushed the civil servants into this sorry state be? Wicked and merciless, simple. There are no two way about this. He who beats you is more wicked than he who only laughs at you from afar.

What worsen Sarkin Mota’s sarcastic videos were the fact that some other Social Media copycats have already taken his style to another level. A ram, which is purportedly priced at one million naira, would be displayed, and after all the grandiose show off, a civil servant who cannot truly buy it will be dragged. Then, you would be surprised as against whom should a civil servant set his face now? This is someone deprived, wickedly and mercilessly, of all enjoyment and now little boys have made him as laughing stock on their empty social media trashes. On this, everyone must commend NOA for stopping this nonsense.

As for Sarkin Mota, I feel he has carved a niche for himself and has been recognized as one of the top dealers even when for sure, there may be many others above him, but yet unknown.

Aliyu Muhammad Sarkin Mota confirmed that his parents are civil servants and that he was not disrespectly and that he was just pulling their legs in an interview he granted to Channels TV. Also, in a new recent video where he displayed a convoy of electric cars, he didn’t mention civil servants again. He still maintained some of his major take always and insignias like technologia Alaji, but he didn’t mentioned civil servant. This is a sign that he had “repented”. Thanks to NOA’s intervention. But a question to NOA, does their intervention make civil servant to afford his cars?

Another take away from the Sarkin Mota’s style is his unique way of speaking English, especially “my buraza”, which makes him unique and original. This takes us to the resounding debate of English as a measure of intelligence. To Sarkin Mota, that isn’t even a topic of discussion, because he has a great command of the English language but he chooses not to sound like a grandchild of Kings Charles. He speaks in a very nice deep and lovely Nigerian accent which even if you don’t like, that doesn’t snatch a dime away from his celebrity status he attained.

Keep going Sarkin Mota! And may we see a day when ordinary primary school teachers can afford to buy the latest brand of cars you brag about, amen!

Muhammad writes from Kano Nigeria, and can be reached via, muhammadunfagge@yahoo.com